FBI warns online daters to avoid “free” online verification schemes that prove costly

The FBI and cybersecurity publisher warn of a dating-site scam where attackers move conversations off-platform to recommend a fake “verification” service that collects names, emails, phone numbers, and credit card details, then redirects victims to subscription sites that charge recurring fees and enable further fraud or identity theft; the article lists avoidance tips such as staying on-platform, not clicking unknown links, monitoring accounts, and using identity monitoring services.